Montevideo City Hall (Palacio Municipal)

The basics

The building itself is free to visit, and the viewing deck should be your first stop. Head to the side entrance and hop on the elevator. At the top, take in panoramic views from the city's second-tallest building, and enjoy refreshments at the sky-high café. Then head to the building's atrium, which often hosts art exhibits, and stop to admire the sculptures outside. There's a bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David at the entrance, and a replica of Nike of Samothrace around the side.

Pair your visit with a cultural excursion at the Museo de Historia del Arte—on the ground level—or head west to the bustling Plaza Independencia and Palacio Salvo. It's about 15 minutes on foot.

Things to know before you go

• Some travelers report that it's hard to find Montevideo City Hall, so look for the distinctive red tower rising from the middle of the building.
• The panoramic viewing area features a cafeteria and souvenir shop, plus views from 262-feet (80-meters) above the streets.
• Architecture fans may appreciate the work of local architect Mauricio Cravotto, who designed the city hall nearly 100 years ago.

How to get there

You can find the Palacio Municipal in the city center (Barrio Centro), on July 18 Avenue (Avenida 18 de Julio). Taxi cabs here are metered, so it's a convenient way to explore if you don't have a car. A city bus is also an option; there's a bus stop directly across from the city hall entrance.

When to get there

Since the top draw here is the viewing deck, plan to visit when the sun is shining. The observation area is open seven days a week, though hours change seasonally. The deck is open later during the warmer winter months—January through April—since Uruguay's warmest season happens during the winter.

What to See at the Museum of Art History

In the ground-level museum, find a diverse collection of art objects from the middle ages through the 19th century. Find pieces from Egypt, Iran, and Rome, as well as a collection of pre-Columbian works from the Americas. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, and holds later hours from mid-December through mid-March. Entry is complimentary.